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The Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for their third consecutive Super Bowl run, starting with a game against Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens this Thursday.
In recent years, the Chiefs have thrived on consistency, thanks to key players like Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Chris Jones, who have all been mainstays in Kansas City. Backup running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, a notable pick from the 2020 NFL Draft, has also been a steady contributor. However, Edwards-Helaire won’t be playing in the season opener against the Ravens. The team has placed him on the non-football illness (NFI) list, meaning he’ll miss the first four games of the season before he can return.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire’s Absence
Edwards-Helaire is on the NFI list due to a non-football-related illness. Although the exact reason wasn’t disclosed, Edwards-Helaire has shared that he’s been dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He mentioned that his PTSD has affected his health, causing severe symptoms that led to him missing some training camp practices.
Edwards-Helaire first experienced PTSD in December 2018, during a troubling event he was involved in while at LSU. He’s talked about how his PTSD has been a long struggle, acknowledging that it’s an ongoing challenge. Despite his efforts to overcome it, he’s been open about the need for support and understanding.
Impact on the Chiefs’ Roster
With Edwards-Helaire sidelined, the Chiefs will adjust their running back lineup. Isiah Pacheco, who had a standout season last year, will remain the top running back. Pacheco was a crucial part of the Chiefs’ offense, averaging 4.97 yards per carry and ranking highly among NFL running backs.
Samaje Perine is expected to step up as the second-string running back. Perine, known for his excellent receiving skills out of the backfield, could be a valuable asset during Edwards-Helaire’s absence. He had a strong performance last year with 50 catches for 455 yards and has been a reliable pass-catcher throughout his career.
Carson Steele, a newcomer from UCLA, will also join the backfield. Steele is known for his tough running style, which could be beneficial for the Chiefs, especially as they look to manage their running backs’ workload throughout the season. While he might not be the fastest, his physicality and ability to handle short-yardage situations could be useful.
Overall, while Edwards-Helaire’s absence is a setback, the Chiefs have a deep and talented running back group that should help them navigate the early part of the season.